Memory Loss

Everyone occasionally experiences forgetfulness. Mild memory loss tends to increase with age and is generally no cause for concern. But progressive memory loss due to illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease can be serious.

Consult your doctor if memory loss starts to affect your daily life, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms. Noting what type of memory loss you have will help your doctor determine its cause.

Many causes of memory loss are treatable if diagnosed early. If not diagnosed and treated, some illnesses will progress and make treatment more difficult.

Memory Loss and Aging

As you age, you may find that you have memory lapses from time to time. You may forget the name of someone you just met, or you may misplace things more often. Perhaps you rely more on lists and calendars to remember chores and appointments. Memory loss from normal aging doesn’t affect your ability to function at work or at home.

Coping with Memory Loss

Coping with Your Own Memory Loss

If your memory is not as sharp as it once was, a few simple adjustments can help you with your daily activities.

Use lists for chores.

Keep a checklist of medications and when they should be taken. Some people find “pill sorters” helpful. You can purchase these at your local pharmacy, and they will help you remember whether or not you took your medication.

Keep your address book and calendar up to date.

Keep your home organized and easy to manage.

Be socially active and engage in hobbies you enjoy.

If your memory loss is progressing or becoming severe, make an appointment with your doctor. Ask someone you trust to go with you.

Coping with a Loved One’s Memory Loss

Watching someone you love struggle with memory loss can be difficult. Depending on the severity of their condition, there are many ways you can help. For example:

Encourage them to visit their doctor if their memory loss is interfering with their daily functioning. Go with them to the appointment.

Keep a checklist of their medications and when they should be taken.

Help them update their address book and calendar.

Help them organize their home.

Keep important items in plain sight.

Use sticky notes around the house as reminders of how to perform tasks.

Encourage them to remain socially active.

Use photographs and familiar belongings to spark memories.

Arrange to have someone help in the home. If memory loss is severe, investigate home health care, assisted living, or nursing home options.

Be patient. Don’t take someone else’s memory loss personally — remember that they can’t help it.

Causes of Memory Loss

Many factors can cause memory loss. These factors include:

vitamin B-12 deficiency

sleep deprivation

use of alcohol or drugs and some prescription medications

anesthesia from recent surgery

cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or bone marrow transplant

Some of these conditions are treatable and, in some cases, memory loss can be reversed.

Dementia

Progressive memory loss is a symptom of dementia. Other symptoms include difficulty with reasoning, judgment, language, and thinking skills. People with dementia can also exhibit behavioral problems and mood swings. Dementia usually starts gradually and gets more noticeable as it progresses. Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease impairs memory and affects reasoning, judgment, and the ability to learn, communicate, and perform everyday functions. People with Alzheimer’s disease can quickly become confused and disoriented. Long-term memories are usually stronger and last longer than memories of recent events. Although it can strike earlier, this progressive disease generally affects people over age 65.

When to See a Doctor

Memory loss can be caused by a variety of diseases and conditions that may worsen if left untreated.

Medical Examination

A medical exam for memory loss will include a complete medical history. Bring a family member or trusted friend along to help you. Your doctor will ask questions about the specifics of your problems with memory. They may also ask a few questions to test your memory. Your doctor should also give you a complete physical exam and ask about other physical symptoms.

Depending on the findings of the exam, your doctor may refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist, geriatrician, or mental health professional. Additional tests may include:

cognitive testing to check your thinking ability

blood tests to look for various conditions including vitamin B-12 deficiency and thyroid disease